Pope Leo XIV releases first encyclical focused on AI and human dignity

Pope Leo XIV has released his first encyclical, Magnifica humanitas: On Safeguarding the Human Person in the Time of Artificial Intelligence, positioning AI as one of the defining moral, political and social challenges of the modern era.

Published by Vatican on the 135th anniversary of Rerum novarum, the document argues that AI must remain centred on human dignity, social justice and peace instead of becoming a tool for domination, exclusion or concentrated power.

The encyclical states that technological systems reflect the priorities and values of those responsible for their design, financing, and governance. The Pope also warned against forms of technocratic governance and excessive concentration of technological power.

The document highlighted concerns related to surveillance, digital inequality, manipulation of public opinion, and concentration of technological infrastructure.

The encyclical also addressed labour, education, and social justice implications linked to AI-driven automation. According to the document, technological systems should support human well-being and dignity rather than undermine workers’ autonomy and social participation. He also called for stronger protections for vulnerable groups, ethical oversight of AI deployment and fair access to digital opportunities.

The Vatican also stressed the importance of critical thinking, creativity, and moral judgement in education systems increasingly influenced by AI technologies.

The document additionally discussed geopolitical and military dimensions of AI, including concerns surrounding autonomous weapons systems. Pope Leo XIV rejected the growing use of autonomous weapons and criticised efforts to normalise AI-assisted warfare.

The encyclical called for stronger international cooperation and ethical governance frameworks related to AI development and deployment. According to the Pope, humanity faces a decisive choice between technological systems that strengthen human flourishing or systems that weaken freedom, solidarity and peace.

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